[Monika Lange]

Barbara and Michelle, I liked your posts. As a single mother to an autistic son who has made huge progress but is not 'recovered', I can attest to the significant time and effort it took to run his program. But when all is said and done, the labour pains of that experience are forgotten. My memory focuses instead on how hard my son worked. I remember my little 3 year old spending 40 hours a week (for years) trying so hard to learn, while all the other neighbourhood preschoolers were out playing. I am filled with admiration for my son who has, through sheer effort alone, accomplished important things that other kids just learn by default. The fact that life has dealt my son an unfair card is sad for me, but to witness how he fought to overcome this was an honour to behold. It's not about me as a parent, and never was. Instinctive parental altruism drove me to be a trooper, but my son was one by choice.

[Monika Lange]

The experience of having one’s child denied medically necessary treatment is supremely painful. I for one will not feel pressured to diminish the unpleasantness of this grand scale injustice for the comfort of others, specifically those who’s apathy has caused my son’s suffering. I, like Stephen Paperman and Barbara Rodrigues, feel the pain every day, and will for the rest of my life as I see my child’s potential limited forever by those in government who do not care. For the sake of our children and our own sense of justice, we will not suffer in silence. I can take no responsibility for protecting the feelings/reputation of those who cause the pain. If misery loves company, I’m happy to make room on the hotseat for the government.

[Monika Lange]

Hi Avery, I was so happy to read your post this morning. My ten year old son's story is the same as your daughter's. He was once very severely autistic, but thanks to Sabrina's good advice and financial help from my parents, he was able to have a few years of Lovaas ABA – and now he is a happy popular boy who has quite a bit of language, loves other kids, is a great swimmer and bikerider. No longer does he spin continuously in circles. No longer does he scream and throw countless ugly temper tantrums every day. No longer does he scream and repel from people who try to interact with him. No longer does his brother (just a year older) cry because he thinks his little brother hates him. Seven years ago FEAT gave me the best advice of my life, "There are a lot of touted 'therapies' out there; your child only has one chance at early intervention so look for the scientifically proven one." Thank you Sabrina. Up north where I live, it's lonely here in terms of ABA supporters. This chatboard keeps me in tune with parents (like Avery) who understand the bittersweet uphill journey we and our children have had. Besides my parents, who have walked uphill with me, no one else here really 'gets' it. No one else really understands the love we have for treatment that has helped our children so much, and our deep appreciation for those at FEAT who guided us to it. I'm happy for your family, Avery. Thanks for your heartwarming story.

[Monika Lange]

Hey Michelle,
I bet that 'anon' isn't very young and new to the field like you think. I bet for years and perhaps even decades she's been stuck in a system that does nothing in the way of rehabilitation for autistic kids. Witnessing that would drive anyone to bitterness and vitriol (however misguided hers is). And speaking to anon, yes, you can use some behavioural techniques on dogs, but that's an entirely different forum of discussion… I suggest you go there instead, because this one's about supporting medically necessary treatment for children.

[Monika Lange]

Hey Michelle,
I bet that 'anon' isn't very young and new to the field like you think. I bet for years and perhaps even decades she's been stuck in a system that does nothing in the way of rehabilitation for autistic kids. Witnessing that would drive anyone to bitterness and vitriol (however misguided hers is). And speaking to anon, yes, you can use some behavioural techniques on dogs, but that's an entirely different forum of discussion… I suggest you go there instead, because this one's about supporting medically necessary treatment for children.

[Monika Lange]

More information is available regarding the "Extended Autism Intervention Program" on the Ministry's website at: http://www.mcf.gov.bc.ca\media_site\breaking_news.htm

This site has some news about the direct funding model for school age children.

Monika Lange

[Monika Lange]

In response to 'Anonymous' – Regarding phoning the Ministers' offices, I haven't received a response. However, my objective is to send THEM a message, not the other way around. I've had enough of their two cents… in terms of funding, my child is entitled to a lot more, NOW. Yes, a quick phone call today is definitely worth it.

There are 500 FEAT members and if just HALF of you call that would, in itself, send a very clear message. We don't want to keep waiting and waiting for ABA. Please call. Tie up their phone lines.

The numbers again are:
Minister Hogg: (250)387-9699
Minister Reid: (250)356-7662

Thank you.
Monika Lange

[Monika Lange]

In light of yesterday's court ruling, I phoned Minister Hogg and Minister Reid's offices this morning to say that I want ABA for my child, and I want it NOW. Wouldn't it be great if their offices were inundated with similar calls today? Please take a moment to call them today.

Minister Hogg: (250)387-9699
Minister Reid: (250)356-7662

Also, if you go to the website http://www.gov.bc.ca/mcf/feed/ there is a feedback spot to write an email to either Minister.

Thank you.
Monika Lange

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